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Red Hat Certifications 2025 Unlocking Opportunities with RHCSA and RHCE

Red Hat certifications have long been recognized for their real-world value and strong industry reputation. In 2025, they remain among the top choices for IT professionals looking to advance their careers in Linux system administration, cloud infrastructure, and automation. Red Hat’s performance-based exam format sets it apart, ensuring that certified individuals possess the practical skills required to handle complex tasks in enterprise environments.

With increasing demand for Linux administrators and DevOps engineers, certifications like RHCSA (Red Hat Certified System Administrator) and RHCE (Red Hat Certified Engineer) are more relevant than ever. These credentials validate expertise in managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems, automating administrative processes, and deploying scalable solutions.

The Growing Demand for Red Hat Certified Professionals

The widespread adoption of open-source technologies in the enterprise space has pushed Linux to the forefront of IT operations. Red Hat, being a leading provider of enterprise-grade Linux solutions, plays a critical role in powering global data centers, cloud services, and development environments. As companies shift toward hybrid cloud and container-based architectures, professionals who can manage and automate Red Hat environments are in high demand.

Organizations today look for certified individuals who can not only install and configure systems but also optimize, secure, and automate them. Red Hat certifications ensure that candidates are equipped with practical knowledge applicable to real business scenarios. This is especially important in sectors like finance, healthcare, telecommunications, and government, where reliability and security are non-negotiable.

Overview of RHCSA Certification EX200

The Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) credential is often the first step for those entering the world of Linux system administration. The EX200 exam tests the ability to perform essential tasks in a RHEL environment. This includes working with users and groups, managing storage, configuring security policies, and using the command line effectively.

RHCSA is intended for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to manage day-to-day operations of Red Hat systems. It is also a prerequisite for the more advanced RHCE certification. In 2025, the RHCSA remains a vital credential for anyone starting a Linux-focused career.

Skills Covered in RHCSA Training

The RHCSA curriculum is designed to provide hands-on experience with real systems. Core competencies covered in training include:

  • Installing and configuring Red Hat Enterprise Linux

  • Managing users, groups, and permissions

  • Working with local and remote storage

  • Configuring essential networking services

  • Implementing firewall and SELinux security settings

  • Monitoring system performance and troubleshooting issues

  • Using the command line to automate tasks

These skills are aligned with the day-to-day responsibilities of a Linux administrator and help build a solid foundation for future specialization in cloud and automation technologies.

Who Should Take RHCSA

The RHCSA certification is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:

  • IT beginners who want to establish a career in system administration

  • Professionals transitioning from Windows to Linux environments

  • Support engineers and helpdesk technicians seeking advancement

  • Students studying computer science or information technology

  • Individuals planning to pursue cloud or DevOps certifications in the future

RHCSA does not require previous Red Hat certification, but a basic understanding of operating system concepts and networking will be helpful during the training.

RHCSA EX200 Exam Structure and Delivery

The RHCSA exam is identified by the code EX200 and features a performance-based format. Unlike multiple-choice exams, candidates must complete tasks on a live RHEL system. This tests their ability to apply knowledge in a practical setting.

  • Exam Duration: 2.5 hours

  • Format: Hands-on, scenario-based tasks

  • Delivery: Remote exam or at authorized testing centers

  • Exam Platform: Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8

Candidates receive instructions to complete a series of real-world administrative tasks. Success in the exam requires familiarity with RHEL tools, commands, and processes.

Exam Preparation and Learning Resources

In 2025, Red Hat offers various ways to prepare for RHCSA:

  • Instructor-led virtual training sessions

  • On-demand recorded video lectures

  • Red Hat Cloud Labs for practical exercises

  • Official Red Hat course materials and books

  • Participation certificates upon course completion

These resources help learners engage with the material in multiple formats and reinforce hands-on learning. Access to live labs also simulates the exam environment, building confidence and efficiency.

One-Year Exam Flexibility and Retake Option

Once a candidate registers for the RHCSA exam, they have a full year to schedule and take it. This allows professionals to learn at their own pace and balance study with work. During this time, they can continue accessing lab environments and learning materials.

Some training packages also include a free exam retake option, offering extra assurance for those concerned about exam performance. This reduces the pressure and allows candidates to focus on learning.

Advancing to RHCE Certification EX294

After earning RHCSA, professionals often progress to the Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) credential. This certification builds on foundational system administration skills and introduces automation using Red Hat Ansible. With automation playing a key role in modern infrastructure, RHCE is a strategic career move for those managing large-scale environments.

The RHCE certification demonstrates the ability to deploy, manage, and automate complex systems using Ansible playbooks, roles, and modules. It prepares professionals for roles such as senior system administrator, DevOps engineer, and infrastructure automation specialist.

Skills Covered in RHCE Training

The RHCE curriculum emphasizes Ansible-based automation. Candidates learn to manage multiple systems consistently, streamline administrative tasks, and improve reliability. Key topics include:

  • Installing and configuring Ansible

  • Writing basic and advanced playbooks

  • Managing variables, inventories, and facts

  • Creating and using roles and templates

  • Automating user and service configuration

  • Troubleshooting automated environments

  • Integrating Ansible with enterprise systems

These skills help professionals reduce manual effort, prevent configuration drift, and improve operational efficiency.

Who Should Pursue RHCE

RHCE is recommended for professionals who:

  • Hold an active RHCSA certification

  • Want to specialize in IT automation and DevOps

  • Manage servers across on-premise and cloud environments

  • Need to standardize infrastructure across teams

  • Are preparing for architect-level certifications

Candidates should have a working knowledge of RHEL and basic scripting before pursuing RHCE. Prior exposure to YAML and SSH is also helpful.

RHCE EX294 Exam Format and Details

The RHCE exam is coded as EX294 and evaluates practical skills through automation tasks. Like RHCSA, it is conducted in a live environment with real systems.

  • Exam Duration: 4 hours

  • Format: Performance-based tasks using Ansible

  • Platform: Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8 and Ansible 2.8

  • Delivery: Remote or testing center

The exam challenges candidates to implement automation for system setup, user management, services configuration, and security tasks. Each scenario requires a complete, functional solution rather than multiple-choice answers.

Training and Preparation Options for RHCE

To prepare for RHCE in 2025, candidates have access to:

  • Instructor-led Ansible automation courses

  • Interactive lab environments for real-world practice

  • Recorded training videos for flexible learning

  • Simulation tasks that mirror exam objectives

  • Red Hat’s official learning platform with structured modules

These resources are designed to help professionals gain confidence and develop an automation-first mindset.

Exclusive Certification Bundle Offers in 2025

To support learners, many training providers offer bundled packages that combine RHCSA, RHCE, and additional Red Hat courses. These bundles are designed to provide maximum value and convenience for professionals looking to complete multiple certifications.

Typical bundle components include:

  • Instructor-led classes for RHCSA and RHCE

  • Access to official Red Hat Cloud Labs

  • Recorded HD training videos

  • Red Hat course books and assignments

  • Exam vouchers for EX200 and EX294

  • Free retake options for added flexibility

  • One-year access to training content and labs

These packages, often valued at over one lakh rupees, are available at significant discounts in 2025. They are ideal for individuals seeking a structured learning path and support system.

Suggested Training Path for Beginners

For individuals new to Linux or system administration, a preparatory training path is recommended before attempting RHCSA. This includes:

  • Introductory Linux fundamentals course

  • Command-line navigation and scripting basics

  • Guided exercises and hands-on projects

  • Access to 24/7 support and mentoring

  • Daily instructor Q&A sessions

This foundational training builds confidence and ensures a smoother transition into the RHCSA curriculum. It also increases the likelihood of passing the exam on the first attempt.

Industry Recognition and Career Benefits

Red Hat certifications are recognized by employers worldwide. In 2025, RHCSA and RHCE certified professionals find opportunities in roles such as:

  • Linux System Administrator

  • Infrastructure Engineer

  • Automation Specialist

  • Cloud Operations Engineer

  • DevOps Consultant

Certification also leads to higher salaries, better job stability, and more responsibilities. It sets candidates apart in competitive job markets and serves as a stepping stone to advanced credentials like Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA).

Introduction to Red Hat’s Cloud and Container Certifications

As businesses evolve toward hybrid cloud infrastructure, automation, and containerization, Red Hat continues to expand its certification programs to meet enterprise demands. Beyond foundational system administration and automation, professionals now require specialized knowledge in managing cloud platforms and container orchestration tools. In response to these trends, Red Hat offers focused certifications like OpenStack Administration (CL210) and OpenShift Administration (DO180 and DO280).

These certifications provide hands-on experience in setting up, deploying, and managing cloud-native technologies. In 2025, they play a critical role in preparing IT professionals for future-ready roles in cloud computing, infrastructure-as-a-service, and platform-as-a-service operations.

This article explores the scope, structure, and value of Red Hat OpenStack and OpenShift certifications. Whether you’re a Linux administrator, DevOps engineer, or cloud architect, these credentials are designed to enhance your profile and increase your impact in modern IT environments.

The Shift Toward Cloud and Container Platforms

Traditional infrastructure models are rapidly being replaced by scalable, distributed, and automated systems. Enterprises now focus on deploying services that are resilient, containerized, and cloud-native. Red Hat, through technologies like OpenStack and OpenShift, enables organizations to build secure, scalable platforms that are vendor-neutral and open-source.

As companies migrate workloads to private or hybrid clouds, professionals with the ability to manage Red Hat-based cloud platforms are becoming essential. With certifications tailored to infrastructure deployment, service management, and platform optimization, Red Hat empowers professionals to remain competitive in a changing market.

Overview of Red Hat OpenStack Platform and CL210 Certification

Red Hat OpenStack Platform is an enterprise-grade cloud computing environment built on the open-source OpenStack project. It allows organizations to deploy and manage private cloud infrastructure using modular components for compute, storage, and networking.

The CL210 certification validates skills in deploying, configuring, and maintaining OpenStack environments. It targets system administrators who want to build expertise in cloud infrastructure and infrastructure-as-a-service models.

Objectives of the CL210 Certification

The CL210 training program is built around real-world administrative tasks and hands-on labs. Key skills include:

  • Installing and deploying Red Hat OpenStack Platform

  • Managing virtual machine instances

  • Configuring storage backends and object storage

  • Implementing software-defined networking

  • Managing user roles, quotas, and projects

  • Configuring fault-tolerant services

  • Securing OpenStack services with role-based access control

These skills are aligned with the needs of enterprises building internal clouds to support development, testing, and production environments.

Who Should Pursue the CL210 Certification

This certification is intended for experienced Linux system administrators and cloud professionals who:

  • Manage data centers or private cloud environments

  • Are involved in setting up virtualization and network virtualization

  • Need to implement scalable and secure OpenStack infrastructure

  • Work in organizations deploying hybrid cloud or edge computing solutions

Prerequisites for this certification typically include RHCSA certification and practical knowledge of Linux networking, virtualization, and storage concepts.

Structure and Format of the CL210 Exam

The CL210 exam is a hands-on, performance-based test that evaluates your ability to perform administrative tasks on a Red Hat OpenStack deployment.

  • Exam Code: CL210

  • Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

  • Format: Real-world tasks performed in a lab environment

  • Platform: Red Hat OpenStack Platform 16 or newer

Candidates are expected to complete practical tasks such as configuring compute nodes, creating users and tenants, assigning roles, and deploying instances. The exam is structured to mirror actual work scenarios in enterprise cloud environments.

CL210 Training and Preparation Resources

Red Hat offers comprehensive training courses to prepare candidates for CL210. Resources include:

  • Instructor-led virtual classes with OpenStack experts

  • Recorded lectures covering each objective

  • Cloud lab environments for practicing configuration tasks

  • Red Hat official course manuals and guides

  • Practice exercises for hands-on reinforcement

Training bundles in 2025 often combine CL210 with other Red Hat certifications and offer extended lab access and flexible learning formats.

Value of CL210 Certification in the Industry

Earning the CL210 certification demonstrates the ability to manage and scale cloud environments using OpenStack. Professionals with this credential can pursue roles such as:

  • Cloud Infrastructure Engineer

  • Virtualization Administrator

  • Cloud Operations Specialist

  • Systems Architect

With the growth of private and hybrid cloud adoption, OpenStack expertise adds significant value to an IT professional’s profile, especially in sectors with strict data residency and compliance requirements.

Red Hat OpenShift and Its Importance

Red Hat OpenShift is a Kubernetes-based container application platform that enables developers and administrators to build, deploy, and manage applications in containers. It offers built-in CI/CD capabilities, developer tools, and automated operational controls.

OpenShift has become the platform of choice for many organizations adopting DevOps practices, microservices architecture, and container orchestration. With cloud-native applications gaining momentum, OpenShift certification is a gateway to high-demand roles in modern application delivery pipelines.

Overview of OpenShift Administration Courses DO180 and DO280

Red Hat offers two major courses for OpenShift administration:

  • DO180: Introduction to Containers, Kubernetes, and Red Hat OpenShift

  • DO280: Red Hat OpenShift Administration

These courses are often taken sequentially and prepare candidates for administering container-based applications and managing OpenShift clusters.

Skills Covered in DO180 and DO280 Training

DO180 focuses on the foundational aspects of containers and OpenShift, including:

  • Understanding container technology and images

  • Running containers using Podman and Kubernetes

  • Introduction to OpenShift architecture and tools

  • Deploying simple applications on OpenShift

DO280 builds upon this foundation and covers more advanced topics, such as:

  • Installing and configuring OpenShift clusters

  • Managing users and authentication

  • Working with persistent storage

  • Creating and managing pods, deployments, and services

  • Monitoring and troubleshooting OpenShift clusters

  • Securing workloads and enabling cluster scaling

Combined, these courses equip professionals with the complete skill set required to manage production-grade OpenShift deployments.

Who Should Pursue OpenShift Certifications

OpenShift certifications are ideal for:

  • DevOps engineers looking to manage container platforms

  • Linux administrators transitioning into cloud-native roles

  • Developers interested in building applications on Kubernetes

  • Professionals involved in CI/CD pipeline management

  • Organizations deploying microservices at scale

Prior knowledge of Linux command-line operations, basic YAML syntax, and container concepts is recommended before starting OpenShift training.

Format and Delivery of the DO280 Exam

The Red Hat Certified Specialist in OpenShift Administration exam validates your ability to manage and troubleshoot OpenShift clusters.

  • Exam Code: EX280

  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours

  • Format: Hands-on, practical tasks

  • Platform: Red Hat OpenShift Container Platform 4.x

The exam requires candidates to demonstrate skills in cluster administration, deployment, networking, security, and troubleshooting. Tasks are completed on a live OpenShift environment, mirroring real-world production tasks.

Training Resources and Learning Tools for OpenShift

Red Hat provides a robust suite of training tools for OpenShift certifications. These include:

  • Virtual instructor-led training by certified OpenShift professionals

  • HD recorded videos covering each topic and lab demonstration

  • Guided hands-on labs using Red Hat cloud infrastructure

  • Access to online documentation and course materials

  • Practice exams and exam readiness assessments

Candidates can also participate in community forums, mentorship sessions, and daily Q&A sessions to reinforce their learning.

Career Roles and Opportunities with OpenShift Certification

With OpenShift gaining traction across industries, certified professionals are in high demand for roles like:

  • Platform Engineer

  • Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)

  • DevOps Consultant

  • OpenShift Administrator

  • Cloud Native Engineer

Organizations adopting container orchestration solutions often prioritize OpenShift due to its enterprise support, security features, and developer integrations. As a result, OpenShift certification holders can expect rewarding job roles and higher salary prospects.

Certification Bundles Including OpenStack and OpenShift

In 2025, many training programs offer bundled certification paths that include RHCSA, RHCE, OpenStack (CL210), and OpenShift (DO180 and DO280). These bundles are ideal for professionals planning a complete Linux-to-cloud learning journey.

A typical bundle may include:

  • Instructor-led training for all certifications

  • HD video lectures and cloud-based labs

  • Red Hat official course books and learning materials

  • Exam vouchers for EX200, EX294, CL210, and EX280

  • Access to one-year training material and lab environment

  • Free exam retake option for added flexibility

These packages offer a structured learning path and cost-effective access to multiple certifications, making them ideal for career transitions or skill upgrades.

Suggested Learning Path for Cloud and Container Specialists

For individuals aiming to specialize in cloud and container technologies using Red Hat platforms, the following path is recommended:

  • Start with RHCSA (EX200) to build foundational Linux administration skills

  • Progress to RHCE (EX294) for automation and Ansible knowledge

  • Take CL210 to understand and manage OpenStack-based private clouds

  • Complete DO180 and DO280 to master OpenShift container orchestration

This progression equips professionals with a comprehensive skill set that spans from infrastructure management to application deployment and automation.

Enterprise Demand for Red Hat Cloud and Container Experts

Large enterprises across finance, telecommunications, government, and healthcare sectors are adopting Red Hat solutions for their mission-critical workloads. Cloud and container experts are being recruited to design, deploy, and maintain secure and scalable platforms.

Certified professionals are not only better equipped to handle these tasks but also have a competitive advantage in terms of career growth and job placement. Red Hat’s reputation in the enterprise market ensures that these certifications retain their value over time.

Why Strategic Preparation Is Key for Red Hat Exams

Red Hat certifications, especially RHCSA and RHCE, are not theoretical tests. These are practical, scenario-based exams conducted on live systems, requiring candidates to think and act like real-world Linux system administrators. Success is not just about memorizing commands but understanding their use and application in complex environments.

Strategic preparation is essential to avoid failure. Many candidates underestimate the depth of troubleshooting and system management questions. Without hands-on practice and a structured study plan, even experienced administrators can struggle.

Understanding the Red Hat Certification Ecosystem

Red Hat offers a structured certification path. The foundational credential is the RHCSA, followed by the RHCE, and further advanced titles such as Red Hat Certified Specialist and Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA). Each level builds upon the previous, ensuring layered mastery of Linux administration and engineering concepts.

RHCSA focuses on system administration tasks such as user management, firewall configuration, basic shell scripting, and service management. RHCE expands into more complex tasks like system automation using Ansible, advanced networking, and security configurations.

Available Offers and Discounts in 2025

As of 2025, Red Hat and its authorized training partners are providing several offers to help learners reduce costs and get the most value. Some notable opportunities include:

  • Discounted exam bundles that include exam vouchers, official books, and lab access.

  • Early-bird discounts on Red Hat Academy enrollments.

  • Retake guarantees and second-shot offers for exam resits.

  • Limited-time access to Red Hat Learning Subscription at reduced prices.

  • Special rates for students and veterans.

These offers are usually time-sensitive and may vary by region. It is advisable to keep an eye on announcements from Red Hat Learning Subscription and local training partners to secure the best deals.

What to Expect on the RHCSA and RHCE Exams

The RHCSA (EX200) is a 3-hour hands-on exam that tests candidates on a wide range of tasks including:

  • Managing users, groups, and permissions.

  • Configuring local storage using partitions and logical volumes.

  • Managing SELinux and firewalld.

  • Automating tasks with cron and at.

  • Managing containerized services using Podman.

  • Boot process troubleshooting and GRUB configuration.

The RHCE (EX294), on the other hand, focuses on:

  • Automating system administration tasks with Ansible.

  • Managing Ansible playbooks and roles.

  • Configuring network services.

  • Creating system documentation and implementing version control.

Both exams are performance-based, so candidates are required to complete configurations and solve problems in a working Linux environment.

How to Build a Smart Study Plan

Effective exam preparation begins with a structured, realistic timeline. Here is a sample 10-week plan for RHCSA:

  • Week 1–2: Master the Linux file system hierarchy, navigation, and permissions.

  • Week 3–4: Practice user/group management, file ownership, and access controls.

  • Week 5–6: Learn storage management, including LVM, mounting, and formatting.

  • Week 7: Explore networking, firewalld, and SELinux.

  • Week 8: Practice cron jobs, bash scripting, and boot process tasks.

  • Week 9: Focus on containers and Podman usage.

  • Week 10: Perform complete lab simulations and troubleshoot real-world scenarios.

The key is repetition, especially with command-line tasks. Candidates are advised to set up their own virtual labs using VirtualBox or KVM with RHEL or CentOS Stream.

Why Virtual Labs Are Essential

Many learners rely on books or video courses alone, but Red Hat’s performance-based format demands more. Setting up a virtual lab environment allows you to:

  • Recreate exam-like situations.

  • Practice complex tasks like LVM resizing, SELinux policy management, or firewall configuration.

  • Test commands without risk to a production system.

  • Experiment with containers and automation tools like Ansible in a safe space.

Free and open-source options like CentOS Stream or Fedora provide nearly identical environments to RHEL and can be used for all practice exercises.

Best Resources for Red Hat Certification Prep

While no single resource covers everything, combining materials leads to deeper mastery. Useful tools include:

  • Official Red Hat Training: Red Hat’s own courses, such as RH124 and RH134, are built for RHCSA prep.

  • Books: Titles like “Red Hat RHCSA/RHCE 9 Cert Guide” offer detailed coverage and practice labs.

  • Video Courses: Platforms offering structured video content help clarify complex concepts.

  • Practice Labs: Hands-on lab simulators replicate the exam environment.

  • Community Forums: Linux communities on Reddit, Stack Exchange, or specialized Discord channels are valuable for peer support and exam tips.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many candidates fail not because of lack of knowledge but due to preventable mistakes. Common pitfalls include:

  • Time Mismanagement: Not pacing oneself during the exam can lead to unfinished tasks.

  • Poor Troubleshooting Skills: Being unable to quickly isolate and fix system errors.

  • Lack of Practice: Reading or watching alone doesn’t replace actual hands-on command usage.

  • Misunderstanding SELinux or Firewalld: These components are often poorly understood but frequently tested.

Avoid these issues by creating checklist-based revision notes, timing your practice labs, and working through as many scenarios as possible.

Career Opportunities After Certification

RHCSA and RHCE certifications open doors to several job roles, including:

  • Linux System Administrator

  • DevOps Engineer

  • Cloud Infrastructure Engineer

  • Systems Engineer

  • Platform Support Engineer

  • Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)

Organizations using Red Hat Enterprise Linux look for verified, skilled professionals who can maintain uptime, automate tasks, and secure systems. These skills are especially critical in industries handling sensitive data, such as healthcare and finance.

Salary Expectations and Job Outlook

Red Hat certified professionals often earn competitive salaries, with actual figures depending on experience, role, and region. As of 2025:

  • RHCSA certified professionals may earn between $60,000 to $95,000 annually in mid-level roles.

  • RHCE certified professionals and those with automation expertise can command $100,000 or more in regions like the U.S., Canada, and Western Europe.

  • DevOps and SRE positions with Red Hat Linux expertise can reach $120,000+ due to the integration of Linux with containerization, CI/CD, and cloud platforms.

Employers increasingly view Red Hat certifications as proof of operational readiness in enterprise environments.

How to Stay Certified and Relevant

Red Hat certifications are valid for three years. To stay certified and competitive:

  • Plan to upgrade your certification before expiration by taking the updated version of your exam.

  • Continue learning with Red Hat’s Learning Subscription or participate in open-source projects.

  • Expand into complementary technologies such as Red Hat OpenShift, Ansible, and Satellite.

  • Consider advancing to specialist roles in security, performance tuning, or cloud architecture.

Staying updated not only renews your certification but ensures continued relevance in fast-evolving IT ecosystems.

Additional Certifications That Complement Red Hat

Adding skills beyond Red Hat Linux can make you a more well-rounded professional. Consider certifications such as:

  • CompTIA Linux+: A general-purpose Linux certification, good for beginners.

  • LFCS or LFCE: From the Linux Foundation, focusing on broader distributions.

  • AWS Certified SysOps Administrator: For integrating Red Hat skills in cloud.

  • Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA): If you’re interested in containers and orchestration.

  • Red Hat OpenShift Certification: For those aiming to specialize in container platforms.

These additional certifications expand your expertise into cloud, automation, and DevOps—fields where Red Hat Linux plays a core role.

Final Thoughts 

Achieving Red Hat certification is both a challenge and a major milestone in a Linux professional’s career. The exam’s rigor reflects real-world demands, and the credential serves as a badge of honor in the IT community.

By taking advantage of training offers, focusing on hands-on learning, and following a smart preparation strategy, candidates can not only pass but truly master the essential skills of Red Hat system administration. As Linux continues to power critical infrastructures globally, your investment in Red Hat certification will continue to pay dividends for years to come.